Dr. G. Viswanathan, a visionary educationist and leader, has left an indelible mark on India’s higher education landscape. His remarkable journey began with establishing Vellore Engineering College in 1984, with just 180 students, offering undergraduate programs in Civil, Mechanical, and Electronics & Communication Engineering. The college, initially affiliated with the University of Madras, evolved into Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) — one of India’s leading private higher education institutions, now home to over 85,000+ students across multiple campuses.

This transformation, fueled by Dr. G. Viswanathan’s passion for education and leadership, has inspired generations of students, faculty, and stakeholders, and has set a new standard for academic excellence in the country.
A Humble Beginning with a Bold Vision
Dr. G. Viswanathan’s entry into education was sparked by a significant meeting with Shri M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, in 1980, where he was granted permission to establish a private college.

Seizing the opportunity, Dr. Viswanathan founded Vellore Engineering College in 1984, one of the first self-financing institutions in Tamil Nadu. The college’s first batch in 1988 set the stage for its future success by securing eight out of nine academic medals at the University of Madras. This early achievement brought the institution state-wide recognition, drawing students across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states.

The Growth of a Legacy

By 2001, Vellore Engineering College was granted university status, marking the transformation into VIT. Over the years, Dr. G Viswanathan’s unwavering commitment to quality education, discipline, and leadership training has propelled VIT to the forefront of higher education in India.

A key to VIT’s growth has been its emphasis on creating an inclusive and vibrant campus culture. From celebrating state-specific festivals like Durga Puja for Bengali students to Onam for Malayalees, VIT has fostered a welcoming environment for students from all over India and the globe, with representation from 75+ countries. The university’s annual cultural festival, Riviera, is a major draw for students across India, providing them with leadership opportunities by allowing them to organize and manage the event independently.
Innovation and Achievements
Dr. Viswanathan’s focus on innovation, research, and industry collaboration has cemented VIT’s reputation as a leader in higher education. Since 2017, VIT has consistently ranked as the top Indian institution in terms of Scopus-indexed publications, overtaking prestigious institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
The university’s 4,000+ research students have been instrumental in driving up patent filings and publications, contributing significantly to India’s knowledge economy. In addition, VIT’s robust placement system, which attracted 947 companies last year, has placed over 90% of students, both in India and internationally, ensuring that parents can not only educate their children but also secure their future careers.
Empowering Future Generations
A firm believer in education’s power to transform lives, Dr. Viswanathan has launched several initiatives to uplift women and disadvantaged youth. His Universal Higher Education Trust provides scholarships to students from underserved backgrounds, ensuring that no student is denied the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Dr. Viswanathan’s dedication to education extends beyond VIT’s borders. As Chief Patron of the Education Promotion Society for India, he advocates for policy reforms that encourage private investment in education. He believes that autonomy with accountability is key to solving many challenges faced by educational institutions today. His call for reduced regulatory interference and increased autonomy for private institutions reflects his vision for a more dynamic and liberal higher education ecosystem in India.
A Lasting Impact
Dr. Viswanathan’s leadership and compassion have earned him numerous accolades, including the ‘Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar’ and ‘Lifetime Achievement Award.’ His contributions to education and public service have not only shaped the future of thousands of students but also positioned VIT as a global leader in higher education.

He was recently awarded – an honorary doctorate for his contributions to international higher education by the State University of New York.
VIT’s commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship has set new benchmarks in Indian education, while its vibrant campus life and inclusive culture continue to attract students from around the world. Today, VIT boasts international accreditations, top rankings, and a strong global alumni network, with students in 84 countries.
Leadership That Redefined Excellence

From a small college in Vellore to one of India’s leading private universities, the story of VIT and Dr. G. Viswanathan is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and leadership. His journey serves as an inspiration to future generations, emphasising the importance of quality education, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence. As VIT continues to grow, Dr. G. Viswanathan’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire more students, educators, and institutions to push the boundaries of education and make a meaningful impact on society.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories by Digii, where we celebrate the achievements and contributions of visionary leaders who have shaped the higher education ecosystem!